Senior Software Developer
Calian
Position Overview
We’re not looking for your typical behind-the-scenes developer.
Hybrid, CAN
At Calian, we’re building MaestroEDE—a cloud-native, AI-powered exercise management platform used to improve the readiness of defence organizations—and we need a Senior Software Developer who’s as comfortable at the keyboard as they are in a conversation. If you’re a hands-on builder and a confident communicator who thrives in collaborative environments, this is your chance to shape a product that supports high-stakes training missions.
You’ll report directly to our Director of Emerging Technologies, work in a tight-knit team, and have real influence from day one. While this is a hybrid role based in Ottawa, we’re open to remote candidates across Canada who bring the right energy, skill, and presence.
🏆 Calian was recently recognized byTIME Magazineas one of Canada’s Best Companies (2025) and ranked #37 onForbes’list of Best Employers for Company Culture. This is a place where culture isn’t just a buzzword—it’s built daily by people who show up with integrity, creativity, and commitment.
Responsibilities
- Lead full-stack development with technologies like PHP, JavaScript (Node.js or modern frameworks), Python, and .NET
- Deploy and secure applications in Linux-based, containerized environments (Docker, Kubernetes)
- Build and optimize databases (MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB)
- Own DevOps practices—CI/CD, observability, security, and automated testing
- Translate complex technical work into clear, engaging updates for stakeholders
- Collaborate with product managers, military SMEs, and internal teams to co-create solutions
- Prototype AI integrations using tools like OpenAI or Hugging Face
- Participate in meetings, give demos, and confidently represent development progress to varied audiences
- Support mentoring of junior developers and contribute to team best practices
Qualifications
- Post-secondary diploma or degree in computer science or related field
- 5+ years of experience in full-stack development
- Technical depth in Linux, PHP, JavaScript, Python, and/or .NET
- Proficient in cloud-native environments with Docker, Kubernetes, and major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP)
- Strong communicator—able to explain ideas, host discussions, and connect with users
- Skilled in CI/CD tooling, Git workflows, and database performance optimization
- Comfortable taking initiative and balancing hands-on technical work with people-oriented collaboration
- Bonus: Experience with AI, defence applications, or user-facing product development
Additional Requirements
- Must be eligible to work in Canada
- Preference for candidates based in Ottawa or within commuting distance (hybrid)
- Remote work considered for the right candidate
- Travel may be required, including international travel
- A background check will be required, and the successful candidate must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Level II (Secret) security clearance
Who Thrives Here?
The best fit for this role is equal parts builder and bridge—someone who writes clean, scalable code but also leans into dialogue, demos, and user discovery. You’ll thrive here if you:
- Like working in a small, high-impact team
- Enjoy explaining “how it works” to non-devs
- Are curious about how your work connects to real-world outcomes
- Want to help define not just what gets built—but why
Let’s Build Something Bigger Than Code
At Calian, you’ll help shape a defence-grade, AI-enabled platform—and do it in a workplace recognized for exceptional culture, collaboration, and growth.
Apply now and help us reimagine how technology supports Canada’s mission-critical training.
#LI-RL1# #SF#
How we hire
- Our hiring process is designed to help us get to know you and discover if you are the best fit for our team. It's also an opportunity for you to gauge if a role at Calian is the right fit for you.
Throughout the process, we’ll share details of the kind of work you’ll be doing, the projects you’ll be working on, the team you’ll be joining, and what it’s like working at Calian. Our biggest tip throughout the process is to just be your authentic self! - Our commitment to diverse, yet highly specialized solutions require many different skills and abilities. We look for the best talent that can contribute to Calian’s success as well as enhance our culture. We encourage you to apply to a role or join our talent community and sign up for job alerts that match your area of expertise and what you are looking for in your next opportunity.
During the recruiting process, you’re encouraged to notify us of any accommodations you may require. We’ll be happy to help.
- We give the same time and consideration to everyone who applies. Here are a few things you can do to ensure your application shines:
- Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join
- Add a cover letter that explains why you are a good fit for this position
- Share a portfolio, personal websites, or links to your professional social media
- In your CV, highlight your key achievements - this is your time to brag
- Include dates! Share the timeline of your experience
- Stand out by tailoring your resume to each position you apply to
- Only apply to roles you’re genuinely interested in and that align to your experience
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- Be prepared! Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join
- View the responsibilities for the role and find examples that demonstrate how you’ve completed these in your previous work experience
- Prepare a list of questions to ask us
- Dress business casual for your interview (virtual and in person)
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- We assess your skills and fit, you assess our fit for you
- We keep you updated and share expectations as we make progress in the recruiting cycle
- Feel free to reach out to your Talent Acquisition Specialist at any time during the hiring process
Perks and benefits
- Flexible work hours
- Robust company-paid benefits
- Generous time off package
- A balanced approach to work and life
- Stock purchase plan
- RRSP program*
- Work from home options